AN AEROSOL-GENERATING DEVICE COMPRISING A DETACHABLE HOUSING PORTION

The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating device comprising a first housing portion and a second housing portion, wherein the second housing portion is configured for removable attachment to the first housing portion.

One type of aerosol-generating system is an electrically operated smoking system. Known handheld electrically operated smoking systems typically comprise an aerosol-generating device comprising a rechargeable battery, control electronics and a heater for heating an aerosol-generating article designed specifically for use with the aerosol-generating device. In some examples, the aerosol-generating article comprises an aerosol-forming substrate, such as a tobacco rod or a tobacco plug, and the heater contained within the aerosol-generating device is inserted into or located around the aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the aerosol-generating device. In an alternative electrically operated smoking system, the aerosol-generating article may comprise a capsule containing an aerosol-forming substrate, such as loose tobacco.

In known electrically operated smoking systems the ways in which the system may be operated are usually limited by the configuration of the system, and in particular the arrangement of the battery, the control electronics and the heater.

It would be desirable to provide an aerosol-generating device that may provide greater flexibility in how the aerosol-generating device may be configured or operated.

According to the present invention there is provided an aerosol-generating device comprising a first housing portion and a second housing portion. The first housing portion may define a chamber for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate. The second housing portion may be configured for removable attachment to the first housing portion. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a heater positioned within the first housing portion. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a power supply positioned within the second housing portion. The aerosol-generating device may comprise control circuitry. The control circuitry may be configured to control a supply of power from the power supply to the heater when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

According to the present invention there is also provided an aerosol-generating device comprising a first housing portion and a second housing portion. The first housing portion defines a chamber for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate. The second housing portion is configured for removable attachment to the first housing portion. The aerosol-generating device also comprises a heater positioned within the first housing portion and a power supply positioned within the second housing portion. The aerosol-generating device also comprises control circuitry configured to control a supply of power from the power supply to the heater when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

Advantageously, providing the power supply in a second housing portion that is detachable from the first housing portion may facilitate use of a single first housing portion with multiple different power supplies. For example, when the power supply is fully discharged, the user may replace the second housing portion with a further housing portion containing a different, fully charged power supply. Advantageously, this may allow a user to continue using the aerosol-generating device without waiting for the power supply to recharge. In another example, the user may select the second housing portion from a range of housing portions having different sizes and comprising power supplies having different storage capacities. Advantageously, this may allow a user to select a preferred compromise between the power supply storage capacity and the physical size of the aerosol-generating device.

Advantageously, providing the power supply in a second housing portion that is detachable from the first housing portion may facilitate use of a single second housing portion with multiple first housing portions. For example, the second housing portion may be used with different first housing portions having different heater arrangements suitable for heating different types of aerosol-forming substrates or different types of aerosol-generating articles.

The first housing portion and the second housing portion may together define a housing of the aerosol-generating device.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating device comprises an interface for attaching the second housing portion to the first housing portion.

The interface may be configured to retain the second housing portion in releasable attachment with the first housing portion by an interference fit. Advantageously, an interference fit may provide a simple and cost-effective arrangement for attaching the second housing portion to the first housing portion.

The interface may comprise at least one of a bayonet connection and a screw connection. The interface may comprise a female bayonet connector on the first housing portion and a male bayonet connector on the second housing portion. The interface may comprise a male bayonet connector on the first housing portion and a female bayonet connector on the second housing portion. The interface may comprise a female screw thread on the first housing portion and a male screw thread on the second housing portion. The interface may comprise a male screw thread on the first housing portion and a female screw thread on the second housing portion.

The interface may comprise a slot arranged to receive at least a part of the first housing portion or at least a part of the second housing portion. The slot may be arranged to slidably receive at least a part of the first housing or at least a part of the second housing portion. The slot may be provided on the first housing portion and arranged to receive at least a portion of the second housing portion. The slot may be provided on the second housing portion and arranged to receive at least a portion of the first housing portion.

The interface may comprise a projection arranged to be received within the slot. The slot may be arranged to slidably receive the projection. The slot may be provided on the first housing portion and the projection may be provided on the second housing portion. The slot may be provided on the second housing portion and the projection may be provided on the first housing portion.

The interface may comprise a latching element arranged to retain the second housing portion in releasable attachment with the first housing portion. Advantageously, the latching element may reduce the risk of the second housing portion becoming accidentally detached from the first housing portion. The latching element may comprise a detent. The detent may be provided on the first housing and arranged to engage a part of the second housing portion when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. The detent may be provided on the second housing portion and arranged to engage a part of the first housing portion when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

The interface may comprise a release element arranged to disengage the latching element. The release element may be arranged to disengage the latching element from the first housing portion. The release element may be arranged to disengage the latching element from the second housing portion. The release element may comprise at least one of a lever and a button. In embodiments in which the latching element comprises a detent on the first housing portion, the release element may be arranged to disengage the latching element from a part of the second housing portion. In embodiments in which the latching element comprises a detent on the second housing portion, the release element may be arranged to disengage the detent from a part of the first housing portion.

The interface may comprise a first magnetic element on the first housing portion and a second magnetic element on the second housing portion, wherein the second magnetic element is arranged to engage the first magnetic element when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

As used herein, the term “magnetic element” is used to refer to magnets and magnetisable materials, such as ferromagnetic materials. The first magnetic element may comprise a magnet and the second magnetic element may comprise a magnetisable material. The first magnetic element may comprise a magnetisable material and the second magnetic element may comprise a magnet. The first magnetic element and the second magnetic element may each comprise a magnet.

The aerosol-generating device may comprise a first electrical contact positioned on the first housing portion and a second electrical contact positioned on the second housing portion, wherein the second electrical contact is configured to engage the first electrical contact when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. Advantageously, the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact may facilitate the transfer of at least one of electrical power and data between the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

Preferably, the control circuitry is configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to the heater via the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

At least one of the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact may comprise a spring-loaded pin. Advantageously, a spring-loaded pin may facilitate a secure electrical connection between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

The power supply may be a rechargeable power supply. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a charging circuit positioned within the second housing portion and configured to control a supply of power received from an external device for recharging the power supply. Advantageously, providing the charging circuit within the second housing portion may facilitate recharging of the power supply when the second housing portion is detached from the first housing portion.

The aerosol-generating device may comprise a charging electrical contact positioned on the second housing portion for receiving a supply of power from an external device for recharging the power supply.

The charging electrical contact may be positioned on the second housing portion so that the charging electrical contact is accessible to a user when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. Advantageously, this arrangement may facilitate recharging of the power supply when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. Recharging of the power supply when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion may be convenient for a user.

The charging electrical contact may be positioned on the second housing portion so that the charging electrical contact is inaccessible to a user when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. Advantageously, this arrangement may prevent recharging of the power supply when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. Preventing recharging of the power supply when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion may be useful for preventing recharging of the power supply while the aerosol-generating device is in use.

In embodiments in which the aerosol-generating device comprises a second electrical contact on the second housing portion, the charging electrical contact may comprise the second electrical contact.

The second housing portion may comprise a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The second electrical contact may be positioned at the first end of the second housing portion. The charging electrical contact may be positioned at the second end of the second housing portion.

The charging electrical contact may form part of an external plug or socket on the second housing portion. The charging electrical contact may form part of a USB-A connector, a USB-B connector, a USB-C connector, or a micro-USB connector. For example, the aerosol-generating device may comprise a USB plug or a USB socket to allow connection of the aerosol-generating device to another USB enabled device. The USB plug or socket may allow connection of the aerosol-generating device to a USB charging device to recharge the power supply. The USB plug or socket may support the transfer of data to or from, or both to and from, the aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating device may be connectable to a computer to transfer data to the aerosol-generating device, such as new heating profiles.

In those embodiments in which the aerosol-generating device comprises a USB plug or socket, the aerosol-generating device may further comprise a removable cover that covers the USB plug or socket when not in use. In embodiments in which the USB plug or socket is a USB plug, the USB plug may additionally or alternatively be selectively retractable within the device.

The charging circuit may comprise a wireless charging circuit configured to wirelessly receive a supply of power from an external device for recharging the power supply. The wireless charging circuit may be provided as an alternative to a charging electrical contact. The aerosol-generating device may comprise both the charging electrical contact and the wireless charging circuit to enable recharging of the power supply via the charging electrical contact and the wireless charging circuit.

The aerosol-generating device may comprise a charge indicator positioned on the second housing portion, wherein the charge indicator is configured to provide a user with a visual indication of an amount of electrical charge stored within the power supply. Advantageously, the charge indicator may assist a user in planning when to recharge the power supply.

The charge indicator may comprise a segmented display. For example, the charge indicator may comprise a series of light emitting diodes (LEDs), wherein charge indicator is configured to illuminate a number of the LEDs to represent the amount of electrical charge stored within the power supply.

The aerosol-generating device may comprise a user input for activating the charge indicator. For example, the aerosol-generating device may comprise a push-button positioned on the second housing portion and configured to activate the charge indicator.

The power supply may be a DC voltage source. In preferred embodiments, the power supply is a battery. For example, the power supply may be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel cadmium battery, or a lithium based battery, for example a lithium-cobalt (LCO), a lithium-iron-phosphate, (LFP), a lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC), a lithium-nickel-cobalt-aluminium (NCA) or a lithium-polymer battery (LiPo). The power supply may alternatively be another form of charge storage device such as a capacitor. Preferably, the power supply is rechargeable. The power supply may have a capacity that allows for the storage of enough energy for multiple uses of the aerosol-generating device.

The power supply may be a first power supply, wherein the aerosol-generating device further comprises second power supply positioned within the first housing portion. Advantageously, the second power supply may facilitate heating of the heater when the second housing portion is detached from the first housing portion.

Preferably, the control circuitry is further configured to control a supply of power from the second power supply to the heater.

The control circuitry may be configured to supply power from the first power supply to the heater during at least one of a pre-heating phase and a main heating phase. The control circuitry may be configured to supply power from the second power supply to the heater during at least one of a pre-heating phase and a normal heating phase. The control circuitry may be configured to supply power from the second power supply to the heater during at least one of a pre-heating phase and a normal heating phase when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. The control circuitry may be configured to supply power from the second power supply to the heater during at least one of a pre-heating phase and a normal heating phase when the second housing portion is detached from the first housing portion. The control circuitry may be configured to supply power from the second power supply to the heater during at least one of a pre-heating phase and a normal heating phase only when the second housing portion is detached from the first housing portion.

Preferably, the control circuitry is configured to supply power from the first power supply to the heater during a pre-heating phase and a main heating phase when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. Preferably, the control circuitry is configured to supply power from the second power supply to the heater during a pre-heating phase and a main heating phase when the second housing portion is detached from the first housing portion. Advantageously, this may allow a user to use an aerosol-generating article received within the chamber without keeping the first housing portion attached to the second housing portion.

Preferably, the control circuitry is configured to supply power from the second power supply to the heater to complete the pre-heating phase in response to detecting detachment of the second housing portion from the first housing portion during the pre-heating phase. Advantageously, this may facilitate completion of the pre-heating phase in the event that the user detaches the first housing portion from the second housing portion before the pre-heating phase is complete.

The control circuitry may be configured to supply power from the first power supply to the heater during a pre-heating phase and supply power from the second power supply to the heater during a main heating phase.

Preferably, the control circuitry is configured to supply power from the first power supply or the second power supply to the heater during the pre-heating phase to heat the heater or a susceptor to an operating temperature.

Preferably, the control circuitry is configured to supply power from the first power supply or the second power supply to the heater during the main heating phase to maintain a temperature of the heater within an operating temperature range.

Preferably, the second power supply is a rechargeable power supply. The control circuitry may be configured to control a supply of power from the first power supply to the second power supply for recharging the second power supply when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. In embodiments in which the aerosol-generating device comprises a charging circuit, the charging circuit may be configured to control recharging of the second power supply.

In embodiments in which the aerosol-generating device comprises first and second electrical contacts, the second power supply may be configured to receive power by the first and second electrical contacts.

The aerosol-generating device may be configured for wireless transfer of power from the first power supply to the second power supply for recharging the second power supply.

The first power supply may have a first electrical charge storage capacity and the second power supply may have a second electrical charge storage capacity. The first electrical charge storage capacity may be different to the second electrical charge storage capacity.

Preferably, the first electrical charge storage capacity is larger than the second electrical charge storage capacity. Advantageously, providing the second power supply with a smaller charge storage capacity may facilitate providing the first housing portion with a smaller size than the second housing portion. Advantageously, this may facilitate use of the first housing portion when the second housing portion is detached from the first housing portion. Preferably, the second electrical charge storage capacity is sufficient to heat the heater or a susceptor for a whole number of smoking experiences. For example, the second electrical charge storage capacity may be sufficient to heat the heater or a susceptor for one, two, three, four, five or six smoking experiences.

The first housing portion may have a cylindrical shape. Advantageously, a cylindrical shape may facilitate use of the first housing portion when the second housing portion is detached from the first housing portion. A cylindrical shape may be an ergonomic shape. A cylindrical shape may simulate holding a conventional lit-end cigarette or a cigar.

Preferably, the second housing portion comprises a sidewall arranged to engage the first housing portion when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. In embodiments in which the first housing portion has a cylindrical shape, preferably the second housing portion sidewall has a concave shape. Preferably, part of the cylindrical shape of the first housing portion is received within the concave shape of the second housing portion sidewall when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. The second housing portion sidewall may have a semi-circular concave shape. The second housing portion sidewall may have a V shape, triangular shape or rectangular shape.

The aerosol-generating device may comprise a magnetic connection arranged to removably attach the second housing portion to the first housing portion.

The magnetic connection may comprises at least one magnetic element. Preferably, the magnetic connection comprises a plurality of magnetic elements. Advantageously, a plurality of magnetic elements may facilitate correct orientation of the second housing portion relative to the first housing portion when a user attaches the second housing portion to the first housing portion.

Preferably, the magnetic connection comprises at least one first magnetic element positioned on the first housing portion and at least one second magnetic element positioned on the second housing portion, wherein the at least one second magnetic element is arranged to engage the at least one first magnetic element when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

Preferably, the magnetic connection comprises a plurality of first magnetic elements and a plurality of second magnetic elements.

Each first magnetic element may comprise one or more magnets. Each second magnetic element may comprise one or more magnets.

Preferably, each first magnetic element is positioned on a sidewall of the first housing portion. Preferably, the magnetic connection comprises first magnetic elements positioned at a top end and a bottom end of the first housing portion sidewall. In some embodiments, the magnetic connection comprises two first magnetic elements positioned at the top end of the first housing side wall and two first magnetic elements positioned at the bottom end of the first housing portion sidewall.

Preferably, each second magnetic element is positioned on a sidewall of the second housing portion. Preferably, the magnetic connection comprises second magnetic elements positioned at a top end and a bottom end of the second housing portion sidewall. In some embodiments, the magnetic connection comprises two second magnetic elements positioned at the top end of the second housing side wall and two second magnetic elements positioned at the bottom end of the second housing portion sidewall.

Preferably, the alignment of the polarity of magnetic elements at the top end of the first and second housing portion sidewalls is different to the alignment of the polarity of magnetic elements at the bottom end of the first and second housing portion sidewalls. Advantageously, this may prevent a user attaching the second housing portion to the first housing portion in an incorrect orientation.

The aerosol-generating device may comprise a feedback device arranged to provide feedback to a user.

The feedback device may comprise an audio feedback device. The feedback device may comprise a haptic feedback device.

The feedback device may comprise a visual feedback device.

The visual feedback device may comprise at least one light emitting diode.

The at least one light emitting diode may comprise a first array of one or more light emitting diodes and a second array of one or more light emitting diodes.

The first array of one of more light emitting diodes may comprise a plurality of light emitting diodes. The first array of light emitting diodes may comprise a chip-on-board (COB) array of light emitting diodes.

The plurality of light emitting diodes of the first array forms a segmented display.

The first array of one or more light emitting diodes may have an annular shape. Preferably, the annular shape is a circular annular shape.

Preferably, the first housing portion or the second housing portion defines a first window overlying the first array of one or more light emitting diodes. The first window may have an annular shape. Preferably, the annular shape is a circular annular shape.

The first window may be transparent, semi-transparent, translucent, or semi-translucent. The term “transparent” is used herein to refer to the transmission of one or more wavelengths of light substantially without scattering. The term “translucent” is used herein to refer to the transmission of one or more wavelengths of light with scattering.

In embodiments in which the first array of one or more light emitting diodes has an annular shape, the second array of one or more light emitting diodes may be positioned inside the annular shape. Preferably, the second array of one or more light emitting diodes is positioned concentrically with the annular shape.

The second array of one or more light emitting diodes may be a single light emitting diode.

The second array of one or more light emitting diodes may have a circular shape.

Preferably, the first housing portion or the second housing portion defines a second window overlying the second array of one or more light emitting diodes.

The second window may be transparent, semi-transparent, translucent, or semi-translucent. The second window may have a circular shape.

The visual feedback device may be positioned on second housing portion. The visual feedback device may be positioned at a first end of the second housing portion. Preferably, the second housing portion is arranged so that the first end of the second housing portion and a first end of the first housing portion together define a first end of aerosol-generating device when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. Preferably, the first end of the first housing portion defines an opening for inserting an aerosol-forming substrate into the chamber.

Preferably, the control circuitry is configured to control the visual feedback device to provide feedback to a user during use of the aerosol-generating device. Preferably, the control circuitry is configured to separately control the first array of one or more light emitting diodes and the second array of one or more light emitting diodes.

The control circuitry may be configured to control at least one of a colour, a brightness, a number of illuminated light emitting diodes, and a sequence of illumination for each of the first array of one or more light emitting diodes and the second array of one or more light emitting diodes.

In embodiments in which the first array of one or more light emitting diodes is a segmented display, the control circuitry may be configured to control the segmented display to display at least one of progress through a pre-heating phase, progress through a current usage session, and a remaining charge level of the power supply.

The control circuitry may be configured to control the second array of one or more light emitting diodes to display a current mode of operation of the aerosol-generating device. The current mode of operation may be selectable from a list of modes comprising a standby mode, a device powered on mode, a pre-heating phase, a main heating phase, a normal heating mode, a boost heating mode, and a usage session ended mode.

The aerosol-generating device may comprise a user input device. The user input device may be integrated with the feedback device. The user input device may be positioned on the first housing portion or the second housing portion with the visual feedback device.

The user input device may have an annular shape. In embodiments in which the visual feedback device comprises a first array of one or more light emitting diodes having an annular shape, the user input device may be positioned between the first array of one or more light emitting diodes and the second array of one or more light emitting diodes. Preferably, the user input device is positioned concentrically with the first array of one or more light emitting diodes and the second array of one or more light emitting diodes.

The user input device may comprise at least one of a light sensor, a capacitive touch sensor, and a resistive touch sensor.

Preferably, the control circuitry is configured to receive a signal from the user input device, the signal indicative of a user input. Preferably, the control circuitry is further configured to control operation of the aerosol-generating device based on the received signal from the user input device.

The control circuitry may be positioned within at least one of the first housing portion and the second housing portion. The control circuitry may be positioned within the first housing portion. The control circuitry may be positioned within the second housing portion. The aerosol-generating device may comprise control circuitry positioned within the first housing portion and control circuitry positioned within the second housing portion.

The second housing portion may be removable from the first housing portion by hand. In other words, the second housing portion may be removable from the first housing portion by a user without requiring the use of a tool.

The second housing portion may be removable from the first housing portion by using a tool.

Preferably, the heater is an electric heater.

The heater may be an inductive heater. During use, the inductive heater inductively heats at least one susceptor material to heat an aerosol-forming substrate received within the chamber. The at least one susceptor material may form part of the aerosol-generating device. The at least one susceptor material may form part of an aerosol-generating article comprising the aerosol-forming substrate.

The inductive heater may comprise at least one induction coil extending around at least a portion of the chamber so that, when an aerosol-forming substrate is inserted into the chamber, at least a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate is received within the at least one induction coil.

The inductive heater may comprise a single induction coil, only two induction coils, or a plurality of induction coils.

The inductive heater may be a first inductive heater, wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises a third housing portion defining a chamber for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate and a second inductive heater positioned within the third housing portion, wherein the second housing portion is configured for removable attachment to the third housing portion, and wherein the second inductive heater is different to the first inductive heater.

Advantageously, providing a third housing portion comprising a different inductive heater may facilitate use of the aerosol-generating device with a wider range of aerosol-generating articles. Advantageously, providing the different inductive heaters in first and third housing portions facilitates the use of a common second housing portion.

The first inductive heater may comprise a first induction coil having a first number of turns, and the second inductive heater may comprise a second induction coil having a second number of turns, wherein the first number of turns is different to the second number of turns.

The first inductive heater may comprise a first number of induction coils, and the second inductive heater may comprise a second number of induction coils, wherein the first number of induction coils is different to the second number of induction coils. The first inductive heater may comprise a single induction coil, and the second inductive heater may comprise only two induction coils or a plurality of induction coils.

The aerosol-generating device may comprise a data storage device and a plurality of control programs stored on the data storage device. The control circuitry may be configured to select and execute one of the control programs dependent on the type of heater connected to the second housing portion. For example, the control circuitry may select and execute a first control program when the first housing portion is attached to the second housing portion, and the control circuitry may select and execute a second control program when the third housing portion is attached to the second housing portion, wherein the second control program is different to the first control program.

The third housing portion may comprise any of the optional or preferred components or features described herein with respect to the first housing portion.

The aerosol-generating device may comprise a layer of material positioned between the first housing portion and the second housing portion when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

The layer of material may be at least one of a magnetic material and an electrically conductive material. Preferably, the layer of material forms a magnetic shield.

Advantageously, in embodiments in which the heater comprises an inductive heater, the magnetic shield may shield one or more electrical components in the second housing portion from electromagnetic fields generated by the inductive heater during use.

Advantageously, in embodiments in which the heater comprises an inductive heater and the aerosol-generating device is configured for wireless recharging of at least one of the first power supply and a second power supply, the magnetic shield may reduce or prevent the induction of electric currents in the inductive heater by the wireless recharging arrangement.

Preferably, the layer of material is positioned between the heater and the second housing portion when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

The second housing portion may be configured for attachment to the first housing portion along a sidewall of the second housing portion. Preferably, the layer of material covers at least about 25 percent of the sidewall when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. The layer of material may cover at least about 30 percent of the sidewall when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. The layer of material may cover at least about 40 percent of the sidewall when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. The layer of material may cover at least about 50 percent of the sidewall when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. The layer of material may cover at least about 60 percent of the sidewall when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. The layer of material may cover at least about 70 percent of the sidewall when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. The layer of material may cover at least about 75 percent of the sidewall when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. The layer of material may cover at least about 80 percent of the sidewall when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. The layer of material may cover at least about 90 percent of the sidewall when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. The layer of material may cover substantially the entire sidewall when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

The layer of material may be attached to the first housing portion, the second housing portion, or both the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

The layer of material may be attached to the heater in the first housing portion.

Preferably, the first housing portion defines an opening for insertion of an aerosol-forming substrate into the chamber. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a cover movable between an open position in which an aerosol-forming substrate may be inserted into the chamber and a closed position in which insertion of an aerosol-forming substrate into the chamber is prevented. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a cover actuator comprising a rotatable portion configured so that rotation of the rotatable portion moves the cover between the open position and the closed position.

Preferably, the rotatable portion is rotatable in a first direction to move the cover from the open position to the closed position. Preferably, the rotatable portion is rotatable in a second direction to move the cover from the closed position to the open position. Preferably, the first direction is opposite to the second direction.

The cover may comprise a plurality of moveable elements. The cover may comprise an iris mechanism. Advantageously, the iris mechanism may be partially closed to engage an aerosol-generating article inserted into the chamber to grip and retain the aerosol-generating article in the chamber.

Preferably, an aerosol-forming substrate is receivable in the chamber in a longitudinal direction, wherein the rotatable portion is rotatable about an axis of rotation that is parallel to the longitudinal direction.

A second opening may be defined by the rotatable portion, wherein an aerosol-generating article is receivable in the chamber through the second opening.

The aerosol-generating device may comprise a first button and a second button each position on the first housing portion or the second housing portion. The first button may have at least one of a different size and a different shape to the second button. Advantageously, providing the first and second buttons with at least one of a different size and a different shape may facilitate tactile identification of the buttons by a user.

The first button may be configured to activate a first function of the aerosol-generating device. The second button may be configured to activate a second function of the aerosol-generating device, wherein the first function is different to the second function.

The first function may be a first heating profile. The second function may be a second heating profile. The first heating profile may be different to the second heating profile. The first function may be a normal heating mode. The second function may be a boost heating mode. The first heating profile may be associated with a first type of aerosol-generating article. The second heating profile may be associated with a second type of aerosol-generating article.

The control circuitry may have a low power mode, and an operating mode that uses more power than the low power mode. The control circuitry may be configured to transition from the low power mode to the operating mode in response to detecting activation of at least one of the first button and the second button.

The control circuitry may be configured to activate the first function in response to detecting activation of the first button for a predetermined length of time.

The control circuitry may be configured to activate the second function in response to detecting activation of the second button for a predetermined length of time.

The aerosol-generating device may be a heat-not-burn device.

Preferably, the heater is arranged to heat a solid aerosol-forming substrate. Preferably, the heater is arranged to heat a tobacco plug.

Preferably, the chamber is arranged to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising a solid aerosol-forming substrate. Preferably, the chamber is arranged to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising a tobacco plug.

Preferably, the chamber has a tubular shape. The tubular shape may have a diameter of between about 6.5 millimetres and about 8.0 millimetres.

The heater may be positioned outside the chamber.

The heater may be positioned within the chamber.

The heater may be coil-shaped.

The heater may be arranged to extend around an outer surface of an aerosol-generating article received within the chamber. The heater may extend into the chamber. The heater may be arranged to be received within an aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the chamber. The heater may be an elongate heater. The heater may be blade-shaped. The heater may be pin-shaped. The heater may be cone-shaped.

The heater may comprise an inductive heater, as described herein.

The heater may comprise a resistive heating element. During use, an electrical current is supplied to the resistive heating element to generate heat by resistive heating.

Suitable materials for forming the resistive heating element include but are not limited to: semiconductors such as doped ceramics, electrically “conductive” ceramics (such as, for example, molybdenum disilicide), carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys and composite materials made of a ceramic material and a metallic material. Such composite materials may comprise doped or undoped ceramics. Examples of suitable doped ceramics include doped silicon carbides. Examples of suitable metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum and metals from the platinum group. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, nickel-, cobalt-, chromium-, aluminium-titanium-zirconium-, hafnium-, niobium-, molybdenum-, tantalum-, tungsten-, tin-, gallium-, manganese-and iron-containing alloys, and super-alloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel, Timetal® and iron-manganese-aluminium based alloys.

In some embodiments, the resistive heating element comprises one or more stamped portions of electrically resistive material, such as stainless steel. Alternatively, the resistive heating element may comprise a heating wire or filament, for example a Ni—Cr (Nickel-Chromium), platinum, tungsten or alloy wire.

The heater may comprise an electrically insulating substrate, wherein the resistive heating element is provided on the electrically insulating substrate. The electrically insulating substrate may be a ceramic material such as Zirconia or Alumina. Preferably, the electrically insulating substrate has a thermal conductivity of less than or equal to about 2 Watts per metre Kelvin.

Preferably, the control circuitry is arranged to supply power to the heater according to a predetermined heating cycle when the aerosol-generating device is used to heat an aerosol-generating article received within the chamber. A heating cycle may comprise a pre-heating phase followed by a main heating phase, as described herein.

In embodiments in which the heater comprises a resistive heating element, the control circuitry may be arranged to supply power to the resistive heating element according to a predetermined pyrolysis cycle to clean the heater when there is not an aerosol-generating article received within the chamber. The pyrolysis cycle may clean the heater by pyrolysis of residue remaining on the heater after use of the aerosol-generating device to heat one or more aerosol-generating articles. Typically, the maximum temperature to which the heater is heated during a pyrolysis cycle is higher than the maximum temperature to which the heater is heated during a heating cycle to heat an aerosol-generating article. Typically, the total duration of a pyrolysis cycle is shorter than the total duration of a heating cycle.

Each of the first housing portion, the second housing portion and the third housing portion may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics or composite materials containing one or more of those materials, or thermoplastics that are suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications, for example polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and polyethylene. Preferably, the material is light and non-brittle.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating device comprises at least one air inlet. Preferably, the at least one air inlet is in fluid communication with the chamber.

The aerosol-generating device may comprise a sensor to detect air flow indicative of a user taking a puff. The air flow sensor may be an electro-mechanical device. The air flow sensor may be any of: a mechanical device, an optical device, an opto-mechanical device and a micro electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) based sensor. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a manually operable switch for a user to initiate a puff.

The aerosol-generating device may comprise a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may detect the temperature of the heater or the temperature of an aerosol-generating article received within the chamber. The temperature sensor may be a thermistor. The temperature sensor may comprise a circuit configured to measure the resistivity of the heater and derive a temperature of the heater by comparing the measured resistivity to a calibrated curve of resistivity against temperature.

Advantageously, deriving the temperature of the heater may facilitate control of the temperature to which the heater is heated during use. The control circuitry may be configured to adjust the supply of power to the heater in response to a change in the measured resistivity of the heater.

Advantageously, deriving the temperature of the heater may facilitate puff detection. For example, a measured drop in the temperature of the heater may correspond to a user puffing or drawing on the aerosol-generating device.

According to the present disclosure there is also provided an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device as described herein and an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate.

As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating article” refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate that, when heated, releases volatile compounds that can form an aerosol.

Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate is a solid aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may be a tobacco plug.

The aerosol-generating article may comprise at least one susceptor element. Preferably, the at least one susceptor element is in direct contact with the aerosol-forming substrate. The at least one susceptor element may comprise one or more strips of susceptor material embedded in the aerosol-forming substrate. The at least one susceptor element may comprise one or more particles of susceptor material embedded in the aerosol-forming substrate.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating article has a cylindrical shape. The aerosol-generating article may have a diameter of between about 6.5 millimetres and about 7.0 millimetres.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating article has a length of between about 70 millimetres and about 80 millimetres.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating article has a mass of between about 570 milligrams and about 630 milligrams.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating article has a resistance to draw of between about 30 millimetres of water gauge and about 45 millimetres of water gauge.

The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a plug of tobacco. The tobacco plug may comprise one or more of: powder, granules, pellets, shreds, spaghettis, strips or sheets containing one or more of: tobacco leaf, fragments of tobacco ribs, reconstituted tobacco, homogenised tobacco, extruded tobacco and expanded tobacco. Optionally, the tobacco plug may contain additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavour compounds, to be released upon heating of the tobacco plug. Optionally, the tobacco plug may also contain capsules that, for example, include the additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavour compounds. Such capsules may melt during heating of the tobacco plug. Alternatively, or in addition, such capsules may be crushed prior to, during, or after heating of the tobacco plug.

The aerosol-generating article may comprise a mouthpiece positioned downstream of the tobacco plug. The mouthpiece may be located at a downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The mouthpiece may comprise a cellulose acetate filter plug.

According to the present disclosure there is also provided a method of manufacturing an aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating device may be an aerosol-generating device as described herein. The method comprises manufacturing a power module comprising control circuitry and a power supply. The method also comprises manufacturing a heater module comprising an inductive heater. The method also comprises attaching the power module to the heater module. The method also comprises programming the power module dependent on the type of heater module to be attached or attached to the power module. The programming step may be carried out before the attaching step or after the attaching step.

The heater module may comprise a single induction coil, only two induction coils, or a plurality of induction coils.

The heater module may be a first heater module, wherein the inductive heater is a first inductive heater comprising a single induction coil. The method may further comprise manufacturing a second heater module comprising a second inductive heater, wherein the second inductive heater comprises only two induction coils or a plurality of induction coils. The step of attaching the power module to the heater module may comprise attaching either the first heater module or the second heater module to the power module.

The power module may comprise a data storage device and a plurality of control programs stored on the data storage device. The programming step may comprise the control circuitry selecting one of the control programs dependent on the type of heater module attached to the power module.

The invention is defined in the claims. However, below there is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

Example 1: An aerosol-generating device comprising:

a first housing portion defining a chamber for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate and a second housing portion, wherein the second housing portion is configured for removable attachment to the first housing portion;

a heater positioned within the first housing portion;

a power supply positioned within the second housing portion; and

control circuitry configured to control a supply of power from the power supply to the heater when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

Example 2: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 1, further comprising an interface for attaching the second housing portion to the first housing portion.

Example 3: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 2, wherein the interface comprises a slot arranged to receive at least a part of the first housing portion or at least a part of the second housing portion.

Example 4: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 2 or 3, wherein the interface comprises a latching element arranged to retain the second housing portion in releasable attachment with the first housing portion.

Example 5: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 4, wherein the interface further comprises a release element arranged to disengage the latching element.

Example 6: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 2 to 5, wherein the interface comprises a first magnetic element on the first housing portion and a second magnetic element on the second housing portion, and wherein the second magnetic element is arranged to engage the first magnetic element when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

Example 7: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, wherein the chamber defines a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article, wherein the first housing portion defines an opening at an end of the cavity, and wherein the opening is positioned at a first end of the first housing portion.

Example 8: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 7, wherein the first housing portion comprises a second end opposite the first end and at least one sidewall extending between the first end and the second end, and wherein the second housing portion is configured for removable attachment to the at least one sidewall.

Example 9: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, further comprising a first electrical contact positioned on the first housing portion and a second electrical contact positioned on the second housing portion, wherein the second electrical contact is configured to engage the first electrical contact when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion, optionally wherein the control circuitry is configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to the heater via the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

Example 10: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, wherein the power supply is a rechargeable power supply, and wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises a charging circuit positioned within the second housing portion and configured to control a supply of power received from an external device for recharging the power supply.

Example 11: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, wherein the power supply is a first power supply, and wherein the aerosol-generating device further comprises second power supply positioned within the first housing portion.

Example 12: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 11, wherein the control circuitry is further configured to control a supply of power from the second power supply to the heater.

Example 13: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 12, wherein the control circuitry is configured to supply power from the first power supply to the heater during at least one of a pre-heating phase and a main heating phase, and wherein the control circuitry is configured to supply power from the second power supply to the heater during at least one of a pre-heating phase and a main heating phase.

Example 14: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 12 or 13, wherein the control circuitry is configured to supply power from the first power supply to the heater during a pre-heating phase when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion, and wherein the control circuitry is configured to supply power from the second power supply to the heater during a main heating phase when the second housing portion is detached from the first housing portion.

Example 15: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 14, wherein the control circuitry is configured to supply power from the second power supply to the heater to complete the pre-heating phase in response to detecting detachment of the second housing portion from the first housing portion during the pre-heating phase.

Example 16: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 13, 14 or 15, wherein the control circuitry is configured to supply power from the first power supply or the second power supply to the heater during the pre-heating phase to heat the heater or a susceptor to an operating temperature.

Example 17: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 13 to 16, wherein the control circuitry is configured to supply power from the first power supply or the second power supply to the heater during the main heating phase to maintain a temperature of the heater within an operating temperature range.

Example 18: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 11 to 17, wherein the second power supply is a rechargeable power supply, and wherein the control circuitry is configured to control a supply of power from the first power supply to the second power supply for recharging the second power supply when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

Example 19: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 18, wherein the aerosol-generating device is configured for wireless transfer of power from the first power supply to the second power supply for recharging the second power supply.

Example 20: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 11 to 19, wherein the first power supply has a first electrical charge storage capacity, wherein the second power supply has a second electrical charge storage capacity, and wherein the first electrical charge storage capacity is different to the second electrical charge storage capacity.

Example 21: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 20, wherein the first electrical charge storage capacity is larger than the second electrical charge storage capacity.

Example 22: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, wherein the first housing portion has a cylindrical shape.

Example 23: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, wherein the second housing portion comprises a sidewall arranged to engage the first housing portion when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion, and wherein the second housing portion sidewall has a concave shape.

Example 24: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 23, wherein the second housing portion sidewall has a semi-circular concave shape.

Example 25: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, further comprising a feedback device arranged to provide feedback to a user.

Example 26: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 25, wherein the feedback device comprises a visual feedback device.

Example 27: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 26, wherein the visual feedback device comprises at least one light emitting diode.

Example 28: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 27, wherein the at least one light emitting diode comprise a first array of one or more light emitting diodes and a second array of one or more light emitting diodes.

Example 29: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 28, wherein the first array of one of more light emitting diodes comprises a plurality of light emitting diodes.

Example 30: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 29, wherein the first array of light emitting diodes comprises a chip-on-board (COB) array of light emitting diodes.

Example 31: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 29 or 30, wherein the plurality of light emitting diodes of the first array forms a segmented display.

Example 32: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 28 to 31, wherein the first array of one or more light emitting diodes has an annular shape.

Example 33: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 28 to 32, wherein the first housing portion or the second housing portion defines a first window overlying the first array of one or more light emitting diodes.

Example 34: An aerosol-generating device according Example 33, wherein the first window has an annular shape.

Example 35: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 33 or 34, wherein the first window is transparent, semi-transparent, translucent, or semi-translucent.

Example 36: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 32 or 34, wherein the annular shape is a circular annular shape.

Example 37: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 32, 34 or 35, wherein the second array of one or more light emitting diodes is positioned inside the annular shape.

Example 38: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 37, wherein the second array of one or more light emitting diodes is positioned concentrically with the annular shape.

Example 39: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 28 to 38, wherein the second array of one or more light emitting diodes is a single light emitting diode.

Example 40: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 28 to 39, wherein the second array of one or more light emitting diodes has a circular shape.

Example 41: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 28 to 40, wherein the first housing portion or the second housing portion defines a second window overlying the second array of one or more light emitting diodes.

Example 42: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 41, wherein the second window is transparent, semi-transparent, translucent, or semi-translucent.

Example 43: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 41 or 42, wherein the second window has a circular shape.

Example 44: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 26 to 43, wherein the visual feedback device is positioned on second housing portion.

Example 45: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 44, wherein the visual feedback device is positioned at a first end of the second housing portion.

Example 46: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 45, wherein the second housing portion is arranged so that the first end of the second housing portion and a first end of the first housing portion together define a first end of aerosol-generating device when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

Example 47: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 26 to 46, wherein the control circuitry is configured to control the visual feedback device to provide feedback to a user during use of the aerosol-generating device.

Example 48: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 47 in combination with Example 28, wherein the control circuitry is configured to separately control the first array of one or more light emitting diodes and the second array of one or more light emitting diodes.

Example 49: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 48, wherein the control circuitry is configured to control at least one of a colour, a brightness, a number of illuminated light emitting diodes, and a sequence of illumination for each of the first array of one or more light emitting diodes and the second array of one or more light emitting diodes.

Example 50: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 48 or 49, in combination with Example 31, wherein the control circuitry is configured to control the segmented display to display at least one of progress through a pre-heating phase, progress through a main heating phase, progress through a current usage session, and a remaining charge level of the power supply.

Example 51: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 48, 49 or 50, wherein the control circuitry is configured to control the second array of one or more light emitting diodes to display a current mode of operation of the aerosol-generating device.

Example 52: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 51, wherein the current mode of operation is selectable from a list of modes comprising a standby mode, a device powered on mode, a pre-heating phase, a main heating phase, a normal heating mode, a boost heating mode, and a usage session ended mode.

Example 53: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 25 to 52, further comprising a user input device, wherein the user input device is integrated with the feedback device.

Example 54: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 53, in combination with Example 26, wherein the user input device is positioned on the first housing portion or the second housing portion with the visual feedback device.

Example 55: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 54, in combination with Example 38, wherein the user input device has an annular shape, wherein the user input device is positioned between the first array of one or more light emitting diodes and the second array of one or more light emitting diodes.

Example 56: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 55, wherein the user input device is positioned concentrically with the first array of one or more light emitting diodes and the second array of one or more light emitting diodes.

Example 57: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 53 to 56, wherein the user input device comprises at least one of a light sensor, a capacitive touch sensor, and a resistive touch sensor.

Example 58: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 53 to 57, wherein the control circuitry is configured to receive a signal from the user input device, the signal indicative of a user input, and wherein the control circuitry is further configured to control operation of the aerosol-generating device based on the received signal from the user input device.

Example 59: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, wherein the control circuitry is positioned within at least one of the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

Example 60: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, wherein the second housing portion is removable from the first housing portion by hand by a user without requiring the use of a tool, or wherein the second housing portion is removable from the first housing portion by using a tool.

Example 61: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, wherein the heater is an inductive heater.

Example 62: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 61, wherein the inductive heater comprises a single induction coil, only two induction coils, or a plurality of induction coils.

Example 63: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 61, wherein the inductive heater is a first inductive heater, wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises a third housing portion defining a chamber for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate and a second inductive heater positioned within the third housing portion, wherein the second housing portion is configured for removable attachment to the third housing portion, and wherein the second inductive heater is different to the first inductive heater.

Example 64: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 63, wherein the first inductive heater comprises a first induction coil having a first number of turns, wherein the second inductive heater comprises a second induction coil having a second number of turns, and wherein the first number of turns is different to the second number of turns.

Example 65: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 63 or 64, wherein the first inductive heater comprises a first number of induction coils, wherein the second inductive heater comprises a second number of induction coils, and wherein the first number of induction coils is different to the second number of induction coils.

Example 66: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 65, wherein the first inductive heater comprises a single induction coil, and wherein the second inductive heater comprises only two induction coils or a plurality of induction coils.

Example 67: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, further comprising a layer of material positioned between the first housing portion and the second housing portion when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

Example 67A: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 67, wherein the layer is formed of a material different from the material of the first housing and/or the second housing.

Example 67B: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 67 or Example 67A, wherein the layer is formed of a material which is softer than the outer surface of the first housing or the second housing.

Example 67C: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 67 to 67B, wherein the layer is formed from a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), styrene ethylene butylene styrene (SEBS), polyethersulfone (PESU), rubber, silicone, polypropylene (PP), high density polyethylene (HDPE), co-polyester, polysulfone (PSU), thermoplastic polyurethane, soft rubber, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM), nitrile.

Example 67D: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 67 to 67C, wherein the layer is formed from thermoplastic polyurethane or nitrile, silicone.

Example 67E: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 67 to 67D, wherein the layer has a Shore A hardness ranged from 20-80.

Example 67F: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples 67 to 67E, wherein the thickness of the layer is about: 0.3 millimetres to 3 millimetres, 0.3 millimetres to 1.5 millimetres, or 0.3 millimetres to 1 millimetre.

Example 68: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 67, wherein the material is at least one of a magnetic material and an electrically conductive material.

Example 69: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 67 or 68, wherein the layer of material forms a magnetic shield.

Example 70: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 67 to 69, wherein the layer of material is positioned between the heater and the second housing portion when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

Example 71: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 67 to 70, wherein the second housing portion is configured for attachment to the first housing portion along a sidewall of the second housing portion, and wherein the layer of material covers at least 25 percent of the sidewall when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

Example 72: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 67 to 71, wherein the layer of material is attached to the first housing portion, the second housing portion, or both the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

Example 73: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, wherein the first housing portion defines an opening for insertion of an aerosol-forming substrate into the chamber, wherein the aerosol-generating device further comprises:

a cover movable between an open position in which an aerosol-forming substrate may be inserted into the chamber and a closed position in which insertion of an aerosol-forming substrate into the chamber is prevented; and

a cover actuator comprising a rotatable portion configured so that rotation of the rotatable portion moves the cover between the open position and the closed position.

Example 74: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 73, wherein the rotatable portion is rotatable in a first direction to move the cover from the open position to the closed position.

Example 75: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 74, wherein the rotatable portion is rotatable in a second direction to move the cover from the closed position to the open position, wherein the first direction is opposite to the second direction.

Example 76: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 73, 74 or 75, wherein the cover comprises a plurality of moveable elements.

Example 77: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 73 to 76, wherein the cover comprises an iris mechanism.

Example 78: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 73 to 77, wherein an aerosol-forming substrate is receivable in the chamber in a longitudinal direction, and wherein the rotatable portion is rotatable about an axis of rotation that is parallel to the longitudinal direction.

Example 79: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, wherein a second opening is defined by the rotatable portion, wherein an aerosol-generating article is receivable in the chamber through the second opening.

Example 80: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, further comprising a first button and a second button each position on the first housing portion or the second housing portion, wherein the first button has at least one of a different size and a different shape to the second button, wherein the first button is configured to activate a first function of the aerosol-generating device, wherein the second button is configured to activate a second function of the aerosol-generating device, and wherein the first function is different to the second function.

Example 81: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 80, wherein the first function is a first heating profile.

Example 82: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 81, wherein the second function is a second heating profile.

Example 83: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 82, wherein the first heating profile is different to the second heating profile.

Example 84: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 80 to 83, wherein the control circuitry has a low power mode, and an operating mode that uses more power than the low power mode.

Example 85: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 84, wherein the control circuitry is configured to transition from the low power mode to the operating mode in response to detecting activation of at least one of the first button and the second button.

Example 86: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 80 to 85, wherein the control circuitry is configured to activate the first function in response to detecting activation of the first button for a predetermined length of time.

Example 87: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 80 to 86, wherein the control circuitry is configured to activate the second function in response to detecting activation of the second button for a predetermined length of time.

Example 88: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, wherein the aerosol-generating device is a heat-not-burn device.

Example 89: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, wherein the heater is arranged to heat a solid aerosol-forming substrate.

Example 90: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, wherein the heater is arranged to heat a tobacco plug.

Example 91: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, wherein the chamber is arranged to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising a solid aerosol-forming substrate.

Example 92: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, wherein the chamber is arranged to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising a tobacco plug.

Example 93: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, wherein the chamber has a tubular shape.

Example 94: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 93, wherein the tubular shape has a diameter of between 6.5 millimetres and 8.0 millimetres.

Example 94A: An aerosol-generating device according to any of the preceding Examples, wherein the first housing portion comprises a battery.

Example 94B: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 94A, wherein the battery is located beneath the heater.

Example 94C: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 94A or 94B, wherein the battery is aligned with a longitudinal axis of the first housing portion.

Example 94D: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 94A or 94B, wherein the battery is offset from a longitudinal axis of the first housing portion.

Example 94D: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 94A to 94D, wherein an airflow channel extends along one side of the battery.

Example 94E: An aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 94A to 94E, a plurality of airflow channels extend around the sides of the battery.

Example 94F: An aerosol-generating device according to Example 94D or Example 94E, wherein the airflow channel, or channels, feed into a funnel, optionally wherein the airflow channel, or channels, feed into a first inlet of the funnel which is wider than a second outlet of the funnel.

Example 94G: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, wherein the first housing portion comprises an air intake at a base of the first housing portion opposite to an end of the aerosol-generating device that receives an aerosol-forming substrate.

Example 94H: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, wherein the first housing portion comprises an air intake at a side wall of the first housing portion perpendicular to an end face of the aerosol-generating device that receives an aerosol-forming substrate

Example 94I: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, further comprising a magnetic shield within the first housing portion, wherein the magnetic shield is located between the heater and the second housing portion.

Example 95: An aerosol-generating system comprising:

an aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example; and

an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate.

Example 96: An aerosol-generating system according to Example 95, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate is a solid aerosol-forming substrate.

Example 97: An aerosol-generating system according to Example 95 or 96, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate is a tobacco plug.

Example 98: An aerosol-generating system according to any of Examples 95 to 97, wherein the aerosol-generating article further comprises at least one susceptor element.

Example 99: An aerosol-generating system according to any of Examples 95 to 98, wherein the aerosol-generating article has a cylindrical shape.

Example 100: An aerosol-generating system according to any of Examples 95 to 99, wherein the aerosol-generating article has a diameter of between 6.5 millimetres and 7.0 millimetres.

Example 101: An aerosol-generating system according to any of Examples 95 to 100, wherein the aerosol-generating article has a length of between 70 millimetres and 80 millimetres.

Example 102: An aerosol-generating system according to any of Examples 95 to 101, wherein the aerosol-generating article has a mass of between 570 milligrams and 630 milligrams.

Example 103: An aerosol-generating system according to any of Examples 95 to 102, wherein the aerosol-generating article has a resistance to draw of between 30 millimetres of water gauge and 45 millimetres of water gauge.

Example 104: A method of manufacturing an aerosol-generating device, the method comprising:

manufacturing a power module comprising control circuitry and a power supply;

manufacturing a heater module comprising an inductive heater;

attaching the power module to the heater module; and

programming the power module dependent on the type of heater module to be attached or attached to the power module.

Example 105: The method of manufacturing according to Example 104 wherein the heater module comprises a single induction coil, only two induction coils, or a plurality of induction coils.

Example 106: The method of manufacturing according to Example 104, wherein the heater module is a first heater module, wherein the inductive heater is a first inductive heater comprising a single induction coil, and wherein the method further comprises:

manufacturing a second heater module comprising a second inductive heater, wherein the second inductive heater comprises only two induction coils or a plurality of induction coils, and wherein the step of attaching the power module to the heater module comprises attaching either the first heater module or the second heater module to the power module.

Example 107: The method of manufacturing according to Example 106, wherein the power module further comprises a data storage device and a plurality of control programs stored on the data storage device, and wherein the programming step comprises the control circuitry selecting one of the control programs dependent on the type of heater module attached to the power module.

Example 108: The method of manufacturing according to any of Examples 104 to 107, wherein the aerosol-generating device is an aerosol-generating device according to any of Examples 1 to 94.

The invention will now be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating device according to a first embodiment of the present invention with the cover in the closed position;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the aerosol-generating device of FIG. 1 with the cover in the open position;

FIG. 3 is a top view of the aerosol-generating device of FIG. 1 with the first housing portion attached to the second housing portion;

FIG. 4 is a top view of the aerosol-generating device of FIG. 1 with the first housing portion detached from the second housing portion;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the aerosol-generating device of FIG. 1 with the first housing portion attached to the second housing portion and an aerosol-generating article received within the chamber;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the aerosol-generating device of FIG. 1 with the first housing portion detached from the second housing portion and an aerosol-generating article received within the chamber; and

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol-generating device of FIG. 1 with the first housing portion replaced by a third housing portion.

FIGS. 1 to 7 show an aerosol-generating device 10 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The aerosol-generating device 10 comprises a housing 12 comprising a first housing portion 14 and second housing portion 16. The second housing portion 16 is configured for removable attachment to the first housing portion 14. A first electrical contact 52 is positioned on the first housing portion 14 and a second electrical contact 62 is positioned on the second housing portion 16. The first electrical contact 52 and the second electrical contact 62 are arranged to contact each other when the second housing portion 16 is attached to the first housing portion 14. The first electrical contact 52 and the second electrical contact 62 may each comprise a plurality of electrical contacts, such as positive power connection, a negative power connection, and one or more data connections.

The aerosol-generating device 10 also comprises a charging circuit 19 and a first power supply 20 positioned within the second housing portion 16. The first power supply 20 is an electrical power supply comprising a rechargeable battery. The first power supply 20 may be termed a main power supply. A charging electrical contact 49, which is in the form of a USB-C connector, is included at an end of the second housing portion 16 and is configured to receive a supply of power from an external device. The charging circuit 19 is configured to control the supply of power received from an external device for recharging the first power supply 20.

The first housing portion 14 defines a chamber 32 in the form of a cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article 80 and an opening 34 positioned at an end of the cavity. The opening 34 is positioned at a first end of the first housing portion 14. When an aerosol-generating article 80 is received within the cavity, the aerosol-generating article 80 and the aerosol-generating device 10 together form an aerosol-generating system.

The aerosol-generating device 10 further comprises a heater in the form of a tubular susceptor element 22 and an induction coil 23. The tubular susceptor element 22 is formed of a ferrous material with a nickel coating. The susceptor element 22 is positioned within the chamber 32 and is supported and held in position within the chamber 32 by susceptor holder 35. The induction coil 23 surrounds the chamber 32. The susceptor element 22 and induction coil 23 are located in the first housing portion 14.

The aerosol-generating device 10 further comprises control circuitry comprising a first controller 18 positioned within the first housing portion 14 and a second power supply 30. The second power supply 30 may be termed an auxiliary power supply.

The control circuitry also comprises a second controller 38 positioned within the second housing portion 14.

First and second buttons 27, 28 are positioned on a sidewall of the second housing portion 14. The first button 27 is larger than the second button 28.

The aerosol-generating device 10 further comprises a cover 100 and a cover actuator comprising a rotatable portion 102.

The cover 100 is moveable between an open position and a closed position. In FIG. 2, the cover 100 is shown in the open position. In the open position, the chamber 32 is open and an aerosol-generating article 80 is receivable in the chamber 32 through the first opening 34. In FIG. 1, the cover 100 is shown in the closed position. In the closed position, the cover 100 closes the chamber 32. This prevents the ingress of dust and dirt into the chamber 32. It is not possible for an aerosol-generating article 80 to be received in the chamber 32 through the first opening 34 when the cover 100 is in the closed position.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the cover 100 comprises a plurality of moveable elements 116 in the form of an iris mechanism. Rotation of the rotatable portion 102 causes the moveable elements 116 to move to open and close the iris mechanism.

The aerosol-generating article 80 comprises an aerosol-forming substrate 82 in the form of a solid tobacco-containing substrate. The aerosol-generating article 80 further comprises a mouth end 84 protruding out of the chamber 32 through the opening 34.

The rotatable portion 102 is ring shaped and comprises a second opening 104 which is concentric with the first opening 34. When an aerosol-generating article 80 is received within the cavity, the aerosol-generating article 80 is received through the second opening 104 and then the first opening 34. The aerosol-generating article 80 is receivable in the chamber 32 along a longitudinal axis represented by broken line 101 in FIG. 2.

The cover actuator is configured such that rotation of the rotatable portion 102 causes the cover 100 to move between a closed position and an open position. In particular, the rotatable portion 102 is rotatable about an axis of rotation that corresponds to the longitudinal axis 101. The rotatable portion 102 is rotatable about 90 degrees between a first position in which the cover is in the closed position and a second position in which the cover is the open position. Rotation of the rotatable portion 102 from the first position moves the cover from the closed position to the open position, and vice versa. The rotatable portion 102 may comprise a raised portion or an indented portion. This is shown as a raised portion 103 in FIGS. 1 and 2. The raised portion or the indented portion may assist the user in gripping the rotatable portion 102 with their fingers. The raised portion or the indented portion may extend in a direction parallel with the longitudinal axis 101. The raised portion or the indented portion may be located on an exterior side wall of the rotatable portion 102. The raised portion or the indented portion may extend from a bottom edge to a top edge of the rotatable portion, preferably in a direction parallel with the longitudinal axis 101.

FIGS. 3 and 4 shows tope views of the aerosol-generating device 10. FIGS. 5 and 6 show perspective views of the aerosol-generating device 10. The first housing portion 14 defines a cylindrical shape. An aerosol-generating article 80 is partially received in the chamber 32 with a mouth end 84 of the aerosol-generating article 80 protruding out of the chamber 32. While the aerosol-generating article 80 is received in the chamber 32, the cover 100 is in the open position.

FIGS. 4 and 6 show a configuration in which the first housing portion 14 has been detached from the second housing portion 16. A sidewall 17 second housing portion 16 defines a semi-circular concave shape 110. The diameter of the semi-circular concave shape 110 is very slightly larger than the diameter of the cylindrical first housing portion 14. As such, the first housing portion 14 can be received in the semi-circular concave shape 110 to engage the first housing portion 14 with the second housing portion 16.

An interface between the first housing portion 14 and the second housing portion 16 (not shown) can be used to releasably attached the two portions together. The interface relies on an interference fit or magnetic connection.

Both the main power supply 20 and the auxiliary power supply 30 take the form of rechargeable batteries. The main power supply 20 has a much larger capacity for storing electrical energy than the auxiliary power supply 30. In particular, the main power supply 20 stores enough energy for a plurality of usage sessions whereas the auxiliary power supply 30 stores enough energy for the main heating phase of one or more usage sessions, such as one, two, three, four, five or six usage sessions.

The second controller 38 is configured to initiate a usage session when a user presses the first button 27. The second housing portion 16 should be attached to the first housing portion 14 when the user initiates the usage session.

The second controller 38 is configured to control a supply of power from the main power supply 20. Following initiation of a usage session, the second controller 38 is configured to control a supply of power from the main power supply to the induction coil 23 as a high frequency varying current via the first electrical contact 52 and the second electrical contact 62. During use, the power supplied to the induction coil of the inductor generates a varying magnetic field that inductively heats the tubular susceptor element 22.

A usage session is split into an initial pre-heating phase which is then followed by a main heating phase. The second controller 38 is configured to control power to the induction coil 23 during the pre-heating phase. The pre-heating phase has high power requirements as the susceptor element 22 (and received aerosol-generating article 80) is required to rapidly increase to a target temperature in which aerosol is generated during the pre-heating phase.

The second controller 38 is configured to end the pre-heating phase either after a predetermined time period or when it is detected that the susceptor element has reached a predetermined temperature. At the end of the pre-heating phase, the second controller 38 is configured to stop supplying power from the main power supply 20 to the induction coil 23. The main heating phase then begins.

The first controller 18 is configured to start supplying power from the auxiliary power supply 30 to the induction coil 23 during the main heating phase.

The user is then able to detach the first housing portion 14 from the second housing portion 16 and to use the first housing portion 14 separately the second housing portion 16, relying on the power from the auxiliary power supply 30 in order to continue to supply a varying current to the induction coil 23 and so maintain the temperature of the susceptor element 22 at a target operation temperature.

The second controller 38 is configured to control power to the induction coil 23 during the usage session (including the pre-heating phase and also the main heating phase) when the first housing portion is connected with the second housing portion. The main power supply may recharge the auxiliary power supply at the same time as the main power supply supplies power to the heater.

In some embodiments, if a remaining charge level of the main power supply is insufficient for one usage session, the first or second controller requests charge level information of the auxiliary power supply. If the remaining charge level of the auxiliary power supply is more than or equal to one usage session, then power for pre-heating and main heating phases is drawn from the auxiliary power supply. If neither remaining charge level of the main power supply or auxiliary power supply can support one usage session alone, then the controller determines whether the total remaining charge level of both power supplies is sufficient to support one usage session. If the total remaining charge level is sufficient for one usage session, then power for pre-heating and main heating phases is drawn from both power supplies.

The susceptor element 22 will heat the aerosol-forming substrate 82 contained in the aerosol-generating article 80 received in the chamber 32. This will generate a vapour. The vapour condenses to form an aerosol which a user can inhale by drawing on the mouth end 84 of the aerosol-generating article 80 in a puff.

The advantage of providing a main and auxiliary power supply 20, 30 in this way is that the auxiliary power supply 30 can be a small and lightweight battery. This means that the first housing portion 14 (containing the auxiliary power supply 30) can be made small and lightweight.

When the device 10 is not in use, the second controller 38 is configured to control a supply of power from the main power supply 20 in order to charge the auxiliary power supply 30. In this way, the auxiliary power supply 30 is charged ready for the next usage session. The aerosol-generating device 10 comprises a wireless charging arrangement (not shown) for wirelessly charging the auxiliary power supply 30 with the main power supply 20. To reduce or prevent induction of varying currents in the induction coil 23 and the susceptor element 22, a layer of material 117 is provided on the sidewall 17 of the second housing portion 16. The layer of material 117 forms a magnetic shield.

A visual feedback device 60 comprises an outer lighting area 61 and an inner lighting area 62 incorporated into the second housing portion 16 of the aerosol-generating device 10. The outer lighting area 61 extends around an arc of 360 degrees to define a closed annulus surrounding the inner lighting area 62. The inner lighting area 62 is generally circular in shape. Each of the outer and inner lighting arrays 61, 62 has a respective display window which forms part of the exterior surface of the housing 20 and is transparent to light.

The second controller 38 is coupled to the outer and inner lighting areas 61, 62 and configured to: i) selectively illuminate the outer lighting area 61 to generate a first predetermined light emission conveying first data indicative of a state of the aerosol-generating device; and ii) selectively illuminate the inner lighting area 62 to generate a second predetermined light emission conveying second data indicative of a state of the aerosol-generating device. The first data and the second data are different from one another. Specifically, the first data relates to a state of progression of usage session of the aerosol-generating device, the second data relates to a state of the aerosol-generating device.

The first data is conveyed by progressively lighting the outer lighting area 61 around the annulus as the usage session progresses. In particular, the outer lighting area 61 is lit by a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) positioned around the outer lighting area. The second controller 38 progressively activates sequential LEDs to indicate a proportion of the duration of the usage session has passed throughout a usage session. In another example, the second controller 38 can be configured to increase the brightness of the outer lighting area 61 throughout a usage session.

The second data is conveyed by the inner lighting area 62 being illuminated with different colours. In one example, the second controller is configured to illuminate the inner light area 62 with blue light during the pre-heating phase. The second controller is configured to illuminate the inner light area 62 with green light during the main heating phase. A user may use the change in colour from blue to green as an indicator to separate the first housing portion 14 from the second housing portion 16 and continue their usage session by puffing on the aerosol-generating article 80 received in the chamber 32 of the first housing portion 14.

The aerosol-generating device 10 also comprises a user input device 63 positioned between the inner lighting area 62 and the outer lighting area 61. The user input device 63 may comprise a light sensor or a touch sensor, such as a capacitive sensor or a resistive sensor. The user input device 63 may be used to control one or more functions of the aerosol-generating device 10.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the device comprises buttons 27, 28. The second controller 38 is connected the first button 27 and the second button 28. It has already been described how, on detecting a press of button 27, the second controller 38 is configured to initiate a pre-heating phase. If, instead of or in addition to the second controller 38 detecting a press of button 27, the second controller 38 detects a press of button 28, the second controller 38 is configured to initiate a boost heating mode. In the boost heating mode, the power supplied to the induction coil by both the main power supply 20 and the auxiliary power supply 30 is increased relative to a normal heating mode. The temperature reached by the susceptor element 22 during both of the pre-heating phase and the main heating phase is higher in the boost heating mode than in a normal heating mode. As such, in the boost heating mode, an increased amount of aerosol is generated. Thus, a user may select the boost heating mode if they want a different experience to the normal experience.

In the boost heating mode, the second controller 38 is configured to illuminate the inner light area 62 with red light in the main heating phase to indicate to the user that boost heating mode has been selected.

FIG. 7 shows an alternative configuration of the aerosol-generating device 10 in which the first housing portion 14 has been replaced with a third housing portion 114. The third housing portion 114 is identical to the first housing portion 14, except for the configuration of the heater. In particular, the third housing portion 114 comprises a first induction coil 23 and a second induction coil 25. During the main heating phase the first controller 18 may supply power from the auxiliary power supply 30 to each of the first induction coil 23 and the second induction coil 25 independent of each other to facilitate independent heating of different portions of the susceptor element 22. Otherwise, the operation of the configuration of the aerosol-generating device 10 shown in FIG. 7 is identical to the operation of the configuration shown in FIG. 1.

AN AEROSOL-GENERATING DEVICE COMPRISING A DETACHABLE HOUSING PORTION

Information

Publication Number

Date Filed

Date Published

Inventors

Original Assignees

CPC

International Classifications

Abstract

Description

Claims

Priority Claims (1)

PCT Information